In a statement from the school, Dr. Pete Voorhees at the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center says Hatchell is ''exceeding all expectations'' and has more sessions of chemotherapy ''to wipe out any residual disease that might be left behind.'' Hatchell returned to Lineberger on Thursday for a planned chemotherapy session.

Hatchell was diagnosed in October. She spoke at the Raleigh Sports Club on Wednesday and has attended four UNC games recently.

It's unclear exactly when Hatchell will return for the ninth-ranked Tar Heels. In an interview with The Associated Press last month, Hatchell said she is hoping to return in time for the Atlantic Coast Conference tournament in March.